News Release

(June 6, 2010) St. Petersburg, FL – The 2010 All Children’s Hospital Telethon today recorded another resounding success in difficult economic times, raising a grand total of $3,343,930 for the region’s referral center for specialized pediatric care.

This year’s Telethon theme, "Celebrate the Miracles," focused on the amazingly strong children and their families who count on All Children’s expertise. Stories of youngsters from throughout west central Florida who have benefited from All Children’s care were the highlight of the 27th annual fundraiser.

In its 84-year history, All Children’s Hospital has grown to become a regional referral center for the highest level of pediatric specialty care and one of the top children’s hospitals in the nation. The Hospital’s mission also includes a strong commitment to teaching and research through its partnerships with H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, the University of South Florida and the Children’s Research Institute. All Children’s regional reach has spurred the creation of outreach facilities in seven west central Florida counties. Community support made such growth possible. Today’s amazing toteboard total pushes the cumulative total of 27-years of Telethon donations to more than $69-million.

The annual Telethon was broadcast live from All Children’s Education and Conference Center on WFLA-TV News Channel 8 from Saturday, June 5 at 8:30 PM through Sunday, June 6 at 6:30 PM. The event was also broadcast on WXCW in the Ft. Myers/Naples area.

In addition to the Telethon, other special events also took place over the weekend to benefit All Children’s Hospital. Money raised from the individual events was included in this year’s $3,343,930 total.

Bill Edwards Presents - A Taste of Pinellas raised more than $300,000 for the hospital over the course of three days. Now in its 24th year, the annual food festival generated record dollars. A stellar line-up of headline music acts including America, Huey Lewis & The News, Lonestar, Martina McBride, Drew Seeley and Mitchel Musso drew record crowds to Vinoy Park on the downtown St. Petersburg waterfront, thanks to sponsorships by Bill Edwards Presents, Inc., Bright House Networks, the Florida Watermelon Association, Oscar Mayer Lunchables, and Budweiser.

The Saturday night VIP Auction Kickoff Party at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park added another $188,565 to the Telethon total.

All funds raised through Telethon events go directly to All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL. The All Children’s Hospital Telethon is part of the Children’s Miracle Network, an alliance of premier hospitals for children. CMN is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping kids by raising funds for 170 children's hospitals across North America through partnerships with their local TV stations.